Static Cycling Machine

ABSTRACT

A static cycling machine includes a support assembly and a drive assembly. A frame assembly is mounted on the support assembly. The frame assembly includes a seat tube assembly extending from the drive assembly, the seat tube assembly being adjustable in length. A down tube assembly extends from the drive assembly, the down tube assembly being adjustable in length. A handlebar assembly is mounted on the down tube assembly. A fork assembly is connected to the handlebar assembly and is adjustable in length. The seat tube, down tube, handlebar and fork assemblies are connected to each other such that at least the dimensions of the frame assembly can be adjusted by adjusting the lengths of the tube assemblies. A driven wheel assembly is operatively connected to the drive assembly so that work applied to the drive assembly can be transmitted to the wheel assembly. Actuators are operatively engaged with the frame assembly to adjust dimensions of the frame assembly.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a static cycling machine. More particularly,this invention relates to a static cycling machine, a control system fora static cycling machine and a method for operation of a static cyclingmachine.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Static cycling machines are a popular method of exercise for athletes atall levels, whether cyclists or not. A problem with such machines isthat they generally can only be adjusted at a rudimentary, level. As aresult, users often use poorly adjusted machines. This results ininefficient exercise technique and can cause injury, particularly inupper level athletes.

Cyclists often require bicycles that are custom-fitted. Custom fitting abicycle can be an expensive and tedious process.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is, provided astatic cycling machine which comprises

-   -   a support assembly;    -   a drive assembly;    -   a frame assembly mounted on the support assembly, the frame        assembly comprising        -   a seat tube assembly extending from the drive assembly, the            seat tube assembly being adjustable in length;        -   a down tube assembly extending from the drive assembly, the            down tube assembly being adjustable in length;        -   a handlebar assembly mounted on the down tube assembly; and        -   a fork assembly connected to the handlebar assembly and            being adjustable in length, the seat tube, down tube,            handlebar and fork assemblies being connected to each other            such that at least the dimensions of the frame assembly can            be adjusted by adjusting the lengths of the tube assemblies;            and    -   a driven wheel assembly operatively connected to the drive        assembly so that work applied to the drive assembly can be        transmitted to the wheel assembly; and    -   actuators operatively engaged with the frame assembly to adjust        dimensions of the frame assembly.

A top tube assembly may be connected between the seat tube assembly andthe handlebar assembly and is adjustable in length. A seat assembly maybe mounted on the seat tube assembly.

An actuator may be engaged with the seat tube assembly and an actuatormay be engaged with the down tube assembly.

The fork assembly may include left and right fork assemblies andactuators may be engaged with respective fork assemblies.

The seat assembly may include a seat post assembly that is adjustablewith respect to the seat tube assembly. An actuator may be engaged withand interposed between the seat post and seat tube assemblies.

The handlebar assembly may be pivotally mounted with respect to the toptube assembly, the down tube assembly and the fork assembly to permitthe handlebar assembly to pivot in response to adjustment of the frameassembly.

An actuator may be engaged with the down tube assembly and the handlebarassembly to pivot the handlebar assembly.

The drive assembly may include a pair of independently operable crankand drive sprocket assemblies.

The drive assembly may include an intermediate sprocket and hub assemblythat includes a pair of minor sprockets to take power from each of thecrank and drive sprocket, assemblies and a major sprocket rotationallyfixed with respect to the minor sprockets.

The driven wheel assembly may include a driven sprocket to take powerfrom the major sprocket and a continuously variable transmissionconnected to the driven sprocket. Alternatively, the driven wheelassembly may include a driven sprocket set to take power from the majorsprocket.

The driven wheel assembly may include a resistance wheel connected tothe driven sprocket via the transmission. The resistance wheel may havevanes to provide air resistance as the wheel is rotated, each vanehaving peripheral edges that are directed away from a direction ofmovement of the vanes.

A fan cover assembly may cover the driven wheel assembly. The fan coverassembly May define a vent to direct a flow of air generated by thedriven wheel assembly on to a user to cool the user.

The invention extends to a control system for the static cyclingmachine, the control system comprising

-   -   a controller operatively connected to each of the actuators to        control operation of the actuators and thus the extent of        adjustment of the frame assembly; and    -   a data storage medium operatively connected to the controller to        store data related to the extent of adjustment of each actuator.

The control system may include a wireless communications module topermit the controller to communicate data to a wireless device.

The control system may include a wireless terminal configured to readdata from the controller and to generate a suitable interface to permitan operator to adjust the frame assembly.

The controller may be configured to read user data from the actuatorscorresponding to an extent of adjustment of the frame assembly and tostore said user data in the data storage medium.

The control system may include a wireless computational device that isconfigured to receive said user data from the controller and to generateoutput data based on the user data.

The computational device may be configured to generate a databaserelating users with data representing frame assembly dimensions.Furthermore, the computational device is configured to write user datafor respective users to a data storage medium for use by said respectiveusers.

The control system may include a reader for reading said data storagemedium, the controller being configured to control operation of theactuators in response to data read from the storage medium such that theframe assembly is adjusted into a condition related to the userassociated with the data storage medium.

The invention further extends to a method for using the static cyclingmachine, the method comprising the steps of:

-   -   recording a user's details;    -   reading power applied at the drive assembly;    -   adjusting the frame assembly with the actuators until a maximum        power applied at the drive assembly is achieved;    -   recording positional conditions of the actuators corresponding        to said maximum power; and    -   storing the user's details together with the positional        conditions in a database.

The method may include the steps of writing data relating to the user'sdetails and the positional conditions of the actuators to a data storagemedium,

The method may include the steps of reading said data relating to theuser's details and the positional conditions of the actuators andadjusting the frame assembly in accordance with said data.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a right hand side view of one embodiment, in accordancewith the invention, of a static cycling machine.

FIG. 2 shows a left hand side view of the static cycling machine.

FIG. 3 shows a right hand side view of the static cycling machine with acowling assembly removed to display internal mechanisms.

FIG. 4 shows a left hand side view of the static cycling machine with acowling assembly removed.

FIG. 5 shows an exploded view of the static cycling machine.

FIG. 6 shows a right hand side view of an embodiment of the staticcycling machine, with the cowling assembly removed, incorporatingsprocket gears on the driven wheel assembly.

FIG. 7 shows a left hand side view of the embodiment of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 shows an exploded view of a drive frame assembly of the staticcycling machine.

FIG. 9 shows an exploded view of a handlebar assembly of the staticcycling machine.

FIG. 10 shows an exploded view of a left lower fork assembly of asupport assembly of the static cycling machine.

FIG. 11 shows an exploded view of a right lower fork assembly of asupport assembly of the static cycling machine,

FIG. 12 shows an exploded view of one of a pair of upper front forkassemblies of the static cycling machine.

FIG. 13 shows an exploded view of a left fork actuator assembly of thestatic cycling machine.

FIG. 14 shows an exploded view of a right fork actuator assembly of thestatic cycling machine.

FIG. 15 shows an exploded view of an outer part of a down tube assemblyof the static cycling machine.

FIG. 16 shows an exploded view of an inner part of the down tubeassembly.

FIG. 17 shows an exploded view of a top tube assembly of the staticcycling machine.

FIG. 18 shows an exploded view of a seat post assembly of the staticcycling machine.

FIG. 19 shows an exploded View of a seat tube assembly of the staticcycling machine.

FIG. 20 shows a plan view of a base assembly of the static cyclingmachine.

FIG. 21 shows a three-dimensional view of the base assembly.

FIG. 22 shows a side view of a crank assembly of the static cyclingmachine.

FIG. 23 shows a three-dimensional view of the crank assembly.

FIG. 24 shows a top plan view of the crank assembly.

FIG. 25 shows an exploded view of the crank assembly.

FIG. 26 shows an exploded view of an intermediate hub assembly of thestatic cycling machine.

FIG. 27 shows an exploded view of a driven wheel assembly of the staticcycling machine.

FIG. 28 shows an exploded view of a cowling assembly of the staticcycling machine.

FIG. 29 shows a control system for the static cycling machine.

FIG. 30 shows a flow chart representing a method of using the cyclingmachine.

FIG. 31 shows a database generated by the method of FIG. 30.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In FIGS. 1 and 2, reference numeral 10 generally indicates oneembodiment of a static cycling machine, in accordance with theinvention.

The cycling machine 10 includes a support assembly 12. A frame assembly14 is mounted on the support assembly 12. A drive assembly 16 is mountedon the frame assembly 14. A driven wheel assembly 18 is mounted on theframe assembly 14. The wheel assembly 18 is operatively connected to thedrive assembly 16 so that effort exerted at the drive assembly 16 istransmitted to the driven wheel assembly 18.

The frame assembly 14 includes a seat tube assembly 20. The seat tubeassembly 20 is adjustable in length and a seat assembly 22 is mounted onone end of the seat tube assembly 20. An opposite end of the seat tubeassembly 20 is fast with the drive assembly 16.

A down tube assembly 24 extends angularly with respect to the seat tubeassembly in a manner conventional to bicycles. The down tube assembly 24is adjustable in length. A handlebar assembly 26 is mounted on one endof the down tube assembly, 24 and an opposite end of the down tubeassembly 24 is fast with the drive assembly 16,

A top tube assembly 28 is connected between the seat tube assembly 20and the handlebar assembly 26 such that the seat tube assembly 20, thedown tube assembly 24 and the top tube assembly 28 are positioned in amanner similar to that of a conventional bicycle.

The top tube assembly 28 is also adjustable in length. The assemblies20, 24, 26, and 28 are connected to each other in a pivotal manner sothat at least the dimensions of the frame assembly 14 can be adjusted byadjusting the lengths of the assemblies 20, 24, 26 and 28.

A front fork assembly 30 is connected between the support assembly 12and the handlebar assembly 26, the front fork assembly 30 beingadjustable in length. In particular, the front fork assembly 30 includesa left fork assembly 34 and a right fork assembly 36, each of which areadjustable in length.

Actuators engage the frame assembly 14 and are operable to adjustdimensions of the frame assembly 14.

The support assembly 12 includes a base assembly 36. An example of thebase assembly 38 is shown in detail in FIGS. 20 and 21. The baseassembly 38 includes a base plate 40. A pair of wheels or castors 42 ismounted on the base plate 40. Thus, movement of the cycling machine 10is facilitated. Brackets 44 are fast with the plate 40 to permit theplate 40 to be secured in position.

The drive assembly 16 includes a drive frame assembly 46, An example ofthe drive frame assembly 46 is shown in detail in FIGS. 5 and 8. Theassembly 46 includes a crank hub case 48. A rear brace 60 has one endfast with the base plate 40 with, a suitable foot plate 52 and anopposite end fast with the case 48. A front brace 54 has one end fastwith the base plate 40 with a suitable foot plate 58 and an opposite endfast with the case 48. A tubular seat pole 58 of the seat tube assemblyis fast with and extends operatively upwardly from the case 48.

A rear vertical support 60 is fast with and interposed between the seatpole 58 and the foot plate 52.

Control and sensing circuitry is arranged in a housing 61 mounted on therear and front braces 50, 54 with suitable brackets 62.

The drive assembly 16 includes a crank assembly 64 fitted to crank case48. Detail of the crank assembly 64 is shown in FIGS. 22 to 25. Thecrank assembly 64 includes a pair of power crank and sprocket assemblies66.1, 66.2 mounted on the left and right hand sides of the drive frameassembly 46, respectively. The assemblies 66.1 and 86.2 include powercranks 68.1 and 68.2, respectively. The power cranks 68.1 and 68.2 areconnected to left and right drive sprockets 70.1 and 70.2 respectively,via clutch mechanisms 71.1 and 71.2 interposed between the cranks 68.1and 68.2, respectively and adapters 72.1 and 72.2, respectively. Thedrive sprockets 70.1 and 70.2 are connected to the crank case 48 withroller bearings 73.1 and 73.2, respectively.

Thus, the assemblies 66 are configured to operate independently of eachother. As a result, a user is encouraged to apply positive effort toeach power crank continuously to maintain a conventional pedalingaction. Sensor mounts 74.1, 74.2 are interposed between the adaptors72.1, 72.2 and cogs 70.1 and 70.2, respectively. Sensors, not shownhere, are arranged on the mounts 74 to generate signals corresponding tothe effort applied to the respective cranks 68.1 and 68.2.

Such an arrangement is particularly suited for training cyclists andother athletes. It is envisaged that the invention covers embodiments inwhich the crank assembly 64 is a single mechanism in which the powercranks are connected to each other for a more conventional trainingapplication.

Applicant has found that suitable components of the crank assembly 64are those supplied by Quarq Technology Inc., for power measurement andthose known as “PowerCranks” for the assemblies 66.

Other components which constitute the crank assembly, but which are notspecifically described can readily be ascertained from FIG. 25.

The drive assembly 16 further includes an intermediate sprocket and hubassembly 76 mounted on the front brace 54. Detail of the assembly 76 isshown in FIG. 26. The assembly 76 includes a mounting bracket 78. Ashaft housing 61 is fast with the bracket 78. A left roller bearing 80.1and a right roller bearing 80.2 are fitted into the housing 81. A drivemember in the form of a left minor sprocket 88 is fast with the leftroller bearing 80.1.

An adaptor 82 is fast with the right roller bearing 80.2. Drive membersin the form of a major sprocket 84 and a right minor sprocket 90 areboth fast with the adaptor 82.

A flexible drive member in the form of a left primary drive chaininterconnects the left drive sprocket 70.1 and the left minor sprocket88. A further flexible drive member in the form of a right primary drivechain interconnects the right drive sprocket 70.2 and the right minorsprocket 90. Therefore, operation of either of the assemblies 66.1 or66.2 results in rotation of the major sprocket 84, allowing specifictraining or technique assessment.

The support assembly 12 includes a left lower fork assembly 92 and aright lower fork assembly 94. Positioning of these assemblies 92, 94 isshown in detail in FIG. 5. Detail of the left lower fork assembly 92 isshown in FIG. 10, while detail of the right lower fork assembly 94 isshown in FIG. 11. The driven wheel assembly 18 is supported above thebase assembly 38 by the fork assemblies 92, 94,

The left lower fork assembly 92 includes a foot plate 96 fast with thebase plate 40. A tubular fork 98 is fast with the foot plate 96. Abracket 100 is mounted on an upper end of the fork 98 for mounting theleft fork assembly 34. A braking mechanism in the form of a disk brakecaliper 101 is mounted on the fork 98 with a bracket 102. A resistancewheel axle mount 104 is fast with the fork 98.

The right lower fork assembly 94 includes a foot plate 106 fast with thebase plate 40. A tubular fork 108 is fast with the foot plate 96. Abracket 110 is mounted on an upper end of the fork 108 for mounting theright fork assembly 36. A resistance wheel axle mount 112 is fast withthe fork 108.

The driven wheel assembly 18 includes a resistance wheel 114. in thisparticular embodiment, the resistance wheel 114 is in the form of a fanwheel, The wheel 114 includes a vane fastening arrangement in the formof a pair of spaced, vane fastening ring assemblies 116. A plurality ofvanes 118 are fastened between the rings 116 to generate suitable windresistance when the wheel 114 is rotated. Each ring assembly includes anouter ring 120 and an inner ring 122, the vanes 116 extending outwardlyin a radial fashion from the inner ring 122 to the outer ring 120.

Each vane 118 is generally rectangular with major peripheral edges 124directed away from a direction of movement of the vanes 118. Applicanthas found that this configuration results in a significant reduction innoise levels and an increase in wind resistance when compared with flatvanes and those used on conventional exercise equipment.

A fan drive ring 132 is fast with a right inner ring 122.2 with asuitable fastening arrangement. In this embodiment, the fasteningarrangement is in the form of ring halves 128 that interconnect thedrive ring 132 and the right inner ring 122.2.

A hub 126 is fast with the fan drive ring 132 so that rotation of thehub 126 is conveyed to the resistance wheel 114.

A drive member in the form of a driven sprocket 134 is arranged on thehub 126. A flexible drive element in the form of a drive chaininterconnects the sprocket 84 and the sprocket 134. It will thus beappreciated that rotation of either of the power cranks 68,independently of the other, results in rotation of the resistance wheel.

A continuously variable transmission mechanism 138 is fast with the hubto provide a continuously variable gearing effect. An example of asuitable mechanism is that supplied under the brand NuVinci®.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, an alternative embodiment of the staticcycling machine includes a cog set 140 of a number of differentlydimensioned sprockets instead of the mechanism 138. With reference tothe preceding Figures, like reference numerals refer to like partsunless otherwise specified.

FIGS. 6 and 7 also show an alternative resistance wheel 123. The wheel123 includes a circular mounting plate 125 mounted on the cog set 140. Aplurality of vanes 127 are fast with the plate 125 and extend from theplate 125 in a radial manner. Each vane 125 has one peripheral majoredge that faces a direction of movement and an opposed major peripheraledge facing away from the direction of movement.

Reverting to the other Figures, a brake in the form of a disk brake 130is mounted on a left inner ring 122.1 to be engaged by the caliper 101.

The front fork assembly 30 includes left and right upper front forkassemblies 142, one of which is shown in FIG. 12. Each assembly 142includes a fork adjustment member 144 and a fork connecting bracket 146for connecting the fork assemblies 142 to the handlebar assembly 26.

The front fork assembly 30 includes a left fork actuating member 148(FIG. 13) and a right fork actuating member 150 (FIG. 14).

A left fork adjustment member 144.1 is telescopically mounted on theleft fork actuating member 148 through a guide and dampener assembly 149mounted on the left fork actuating member 148 configured to dampenrelative movement between the member 148 and the member 144.1. A bottomjoint 152 connects to the bracket 100. A left fork actuator 154 isengaged with the members 144.1 and 148 to adjust an overall length ofthe left upper front fork assembly.

A right fork adjustment member 144.2 is telescopically mounted on theright fork actuating member 150 through a guide and dampener assembly151 configured to dampen relative movement between the member 150 andthe member 144.2. A bottom joint 156 connects to the bracket 110. Aright fork actuator 158 is engaged with the members 144.2 and 150 toadjust an overall length of the left upper front fork assembly.

The down tube assembly 24 is shown in detail in FIGS. 15 and 16. Thedown tube assembly 24 has an inner down tube 160 (FIG. 16). The innerdown tube 160 has a joint 162 that is fast with the crank hub case 48.

The down tube Assembly 24 has an outer down tube 164 (FIG. 15). Theouter down tube 164 has a bottom tube guide 166 at one end through whichthe inner down tube 160 is received to be telescopically mounted to theouter down tube 164. The bottom tube guide 166 incorporates a dampeningarrangement 165 that includes a dampening pad and pressure plate todampen relative movement between the inner and outer down tubes.

A pivotal connecting arrangement in the form of a top yoke 168 ismounted at an opposite end of the tube 164 to connect the outer downtube to the handlebar assembly 26. An actuator mounting bracket 170 isfast with the outer down tube 164.

An actuator 172 interconnects the inner down tube 160 and the bracket170 so that an overall length of the down tube assembly 24 can beadjusted on operation of the actuator 172.

The seat tube assembly 20 (FIG. 19) includes a seat tube 174 that istelescopically mounted on the seat pole 58. A top guide joint 176 ismounted on an operatively upper end of the seat tube 174. A dampeningarrangement 175 is arranged in the joint 176 to dampen relative movementof the seat tube 174 and the seat post 184. A seat tube actuator bracket178 is fast with the seat tube 174.

An actuator 180 interconnects the top guide joint 176 and the seat pole58 so that an overall length of the seat tube assembly 20 can beadjusted on operation of the actuator 180. A demarcated size indicationplate 181 is fast with the seat tube 174 and co-operates with the seatpole 58 to provide a visual indication of the overall length of the seattube assembly 20.

The seat assembly 22 includes a seat post assembly 182 (FIG. 18). Thepost assembly 182 includes a seat post 184, a lower end of which Isreceived through the top guide joint 176 of the seat tube assembly 20 sothat the post 184 is telescopically mounted on the seat pole 58.

A seat adjustment base plate 186 is mounted on an operatively upper endof the post 184. The base plate 186 defines a channel 188. A seatmounting block 190 is received in the channel 188 to be operativelyhorizontally displaceable relative to the base plate 186. A slide rod192 is positioned in the channel 188. The seat mounting block 190 has apair of guide formations 194, each defining a guide passage 196. Theslide rod 192 is received through the guide passages 196 so that theseat mounting block 190 can slide relative to the base plate 186. Thebase plate 186 defines a pair of opposed elongate slots 198. A pair offasteners 200 is received through the slots 198 and through openings 201in the block 190 to secure the block 190 in a selected position.

A seat clamping assembly 202 is arranged on the block 190 to fasten aseat 204 to the block 190. The seat clamping assembly 202 is configuredso that the seat 204 can be pivoted into a desired orientation.

An actuator 206 interconnects the base plate 186 and the actuatormounting bracket 170 so that the seat post 184 can be adjusted relativeto the seat tube 174.

The top tube assembly 28 is shown in detail in FIG. 17. The assembly 28includes an outer top tube 208. A pivotal connector in the form of afront yoke 210 is mounted on a front end of the tube 208. An inner toptube 212 is received in the outer top tube 208 in a telescopic fashion.The inner top tube is received through a guide and dampener assembly214. The guide and dampener assembly 214 includes a guide member 216which is fast with the outer top tube 208. The guide member 216 definesa dampener formation 218 in which a dampener washer insert is received.A dampener pad 220 is fast with the inner top tube 212 to engage thewasher insert when the top tube assembly 28 is in a retracted condition.

A size indicator in the form of a demarcated size indication plate 224is mounted on each side of the inner top tube 212. The plate 224co-operates with the outer top tube 208 to provide a visual indicationof the overall length of the top tube assembly 28.

A pivotal connector in the form of a yoke, such as a clevis yoke 226 ismounted on a rear end of the Inner top tube 212 so that the inner toptube can be connected to a complementary connecting formation in theform of a yoke 227 on the seat tube 174.

The handlebar assembly 26 is shown In detail in FIG. 9. The handlebarassembly Includes a head portion that includes a head joint 228. Thehead joint 228 defines a channel 230. A head stem 232 is received in thechannel 230. A sliding guide arrangement in the form of a slide rod 234is positioned in the channel 230. The head stern 232 defines a passage236, the slide rod 234 being received through the passage 236 so thatthe head stem 232 can slide relative to the head joint 228. A lockingarrangement includes a pair of opposed slots 258 defined in the headstem 232 and opening into the channel 230. A pair of fasteners isreceived through the slots 238 and through complementary openings 240defined in the head stem 232. Thus, the head stern 232 can be locked inposition relative to the head joint 228. A handlebar stem 242 is clampedto a spigot 244 of the head stem 232 and handlebars 246 are fast withthe handlebar stem 242.

The head joint 228 defines a transverse mounting formation 246. A leftfork connecting bracket 146.1 is pivotally connected to a left side ofthe mounting formation 246 and a right fork connecting bracket 146.2 ispivotally connected to a right side of the mounting formation 246. itfollows that actuation of the left and right fork actuators 148, 150adjusts a height of the handlebars 248.

The head joint 228 defines an opening 250 so that the top yoke 168 ofthe outer down tube 164 is pivotally connected to the head joint 228allowing pivotal movement of the head joint 228 with respect to the downtube assembly 24.

The head joint 228 defines a lug 252, The lug 252 defines an opening 254so that an actuator 256 pivotally interconnects the head joint 228 andthe actuator mounting bracket 170.

The head joint 228 defines a further opening 258 so that the front yoke210 of the outer top tube 208 is pivotally connected with the head joint228.

The static cycling machine 10 includes a cover assembly in the form of acowling assembly 260, shown in detail in FIG. 28. The cowling assembly260 includes a pair of side covers 262 that cover the various workingcomponents of the machine 10, both for safety and aesthetics.

The cowling assembly 260 also includes a fan cover 264 that covers thedriven wheel assembly 18. The fan cover 264 defines a vent 266 that isconfigured so that air flow generated by the vanes 118 is directed on toa user to cool the user.

Each of the actuators is a linear actuator incorporating a steppermotor, The actuators are infinitely adjustable between predeterminedranges.

The static cycling machine 10 includes a control system, an example ofwhich is indicated at 270 in FIG. 29. The actuators described above arenumbered accordingly in FIG. 29 for the sake of convenience and clarity.The control system 270 includes a controller 272 that is operativelyconnected to each of the actuators to control operation of theactuators. The actuators incorporate stepper motors with feedbackgeneration so that a positional condition of each actuator can besignaled to the controller 272 and stored either dynamically orstatically in a database 274.

It will be appreciated that adjusting a length of one of the assemblieswill result in corresponding adjustment in length of at least one otherassembly. The controller 272 is programmed so that an adjustment inlength of any one of the assemblies is carried out in a compound fashionby incrementally altering the lengths of the other assemblies. Forexample, where it is desired to extend a height of the handlebarassembly 26 relative to the seat assembly 22, the actuators 154, 158 and172 co-operate to achieve the height adjustment. It follows that saidadjustment can occur incrementally and sequentially in each of theactuators 164, 158 and 172. Furthermore, the actuator 256 can beoperated to adjust a tilt of the handlebar assembly 26 to suit thecyclist. During that adjustment process, the top tube assembly 28 iscapable of pivoting to accommodate relative movement of the assembliesdue to the manner in which it is mounted to the handlebar assembly 26and the seat tube assembly 20. Also, the top tube assembly 28 is capableof extension or retraction to accommodate that relative movement. Itwill readily be appreciated that a similar process is followed when aheight of the seat assembly 22 is adjusted relative to the handlebarassembly 26.

The actuators include potentiometers, the resistance value associatedwith the potentiometers varying according to an extent of adjustment ofthe actuators. The Controller 272 reads the variation in resistance toobtain a value associated with an extent of adjustment of the actuators.

The actuators have internal limit switches, generally indicated at 276to limit the extent of adjustment of the actuators. In addition, thecontroller 272 is programmed to cut power to a particular actuator, ifthe extent of adjustment of that actuator exceeds a predetermined value.

The controller 272 is located in the control circuitry housing 61described earlier. The control circuitry includes a wirelesscommunications module 278 to permit the controller 272 to communicatewirelessly with various devices.

Such devices can include a handheld wireless device 280 in the form ofan application-specific handheld terminal or a personal digitalassistant (PDA). The device 280 is configured to receive data from thecontroller 272 representing the positional condition of each of theactuators. Alternatively, the controller 272 can be configured togenerate data representing the lengths of the various adjustableassemblies, calculated from the positional conditions of the associatedactuators. That data can then be communicated to the terminal 280, sothat an operator can readily assess the condition of the machine 10.

The device 280 can be configured to generate an interface for use by anoperator to permit the operator to control the actuators in a number ofdifferent ways. In one embodiment, the device can be configured toactuate each of the actuators individually. in another embodiment, thedevice can be configured to generate an interface that allows theoperator to select a particular position of one of the assemblies. Inthat embodiment, when the operator selects the particular position, thecontroller is configured to sequentially and incrementally adjust theassociated actuators until a positional condition of the associatedactuators corresponding to the desired position of the target assemblyis reached.

In this regard, it will be appreciated that relative positions of theseat 204 and handlebar 248 correspond in a predictable manner withpositional conditions of the various actuators. It follows that thecontroller 272 can be programmed with a suitable algorithm relating therelative position of the seat 204 and handlebar 248 to positionalconditions of the various actuators. Furthermore, one of the actuators250 is capable of adjusting an angular position of the handlebars 248 toaccommodate adjustment of relative linear positions of the handlebars248 and the seat 204.

The actuators are configured to provide infinite adjustment within aparticular range. It follows that overall dimensions of the frameassembly 14 are infinitely adjustable over a particular range. As aresult the frame assembly 14 cart simulate any bicycle frame geometryacross a particular range. It follows that the machine 10 is suited forassessing cyclists or athletes for frame customization.

The machine 10 facilitates customization because the actuators areoperable while the cyclist operates the machine. In one application,therefore, the cyclist pedals while a trainer or fitter obtains verbalfeedback as to which settings are most comfortable. Those settings arerecorded manually using the various size indication plates. Instead, thecontroller 272 can record the positional conditions of the actuatorscorresponding to the most comfortable settings in the database 274 forlater recall.

The sensor mounts 74.1 and 74.2 can carry sensors 282.1 and 282.2respectively. Each of the sensors 282 communicates data relating topower applied to the respective power cranks 68.1 and 68.2 viainterfaces 2841 and 284.2.

The control system 270 includes a computational device such as a laptopcomputer 286 or a PC that is configured to communicate with thecontroller 272 via the communications module 278. The device 286 caninclude one or more databases for storing data, relating to the use ofthe machine 10. For example, the device 286 can store cyclistidentification data, and, related to each cyclist, data related to thefork assembly length, down tube assembly length, top tube assemblylength, seat tube assembly length, and seat post assembly length.

One example of a method of collecting that data is set out in theflowchart shown in FIG. 30. A cyclist to be assessed is seated on themachine. Details of the cyclist are recorded. At 290, the actuators areadjusted so that the frame assembly and fork assembly are adjusted intoa condition estimated to be suitable for the cyclist. At 292 theactuator positions are recorded. Pedaling is initiated at 204. Powerapplied to the left and right hand power cranks is read at 296. Thecyclist provides verbal feedback and the actuators are adjustedaccordingly at 298. Power applied to the left and right hand cranks isread again at 300. The power applied at 300 is compared to the powerapplied at 296 at 302. If there has been an improvement the actuatorscan be adjusted again at 298 and steps 300 and 302 repeated. If therehas not been an improvement, the operator makes an intuitive adjustmentand reads the power again. At 304 a query is made as to whether or notthe power has improved. If yes, the actuator settings can be recorded.

It will be appreciated that the method shown in FIG. 30 can be automatedto a large degree to generate optimized data related to the variouslengths and associated with the particular cyclist.

It will also be appreciated that the method can be used to generate arelational database. An example of a simple relational database inaccordance with the invention is shown in FIG. 31. As can be seen, therelational database associates respective cyclist data components 314with data components 316 related to optimized fork assembly length, downtube assembly length, top tube assembly length, seat tube assemblylength, and seat post assembly length. Each of the optimized lengths isassociated with respective sets of data components 318 representingpositional conditions of the actuators.

Once the relational database has been generated, it can be used to writedata relating to respective cyclists to data storage media personalizedfor the respective cyclists. That data would include identification datarepresenting the cyclist and at least data related to fork assemblylength, down tube assembly length, top tube assembly length, seat tubeassembly length, and seat post assembly length optimized for the cardholder. Other data may include extent of handlebar tilt and any otherconditional data related to the machine 10 which can be effected by thepositional conditions of the actuators. For example, the data can bewritten to a card with a data carrier.

The machine 10 may include a data reader 310 for reading the data fromthe data storage media. A reader interface 312 writes the data to thecontroller 272. Where the data storage media is a card, the data reader310 is a card reader.

The controller 272 is configured to process the data from the datastorage media and to generate control signals so that the actuatorsassume conditions that result in the various assemblies assuming lengthsoptimized for the particular cyclist.

In one application, the static cycling machine 10 is used to select asuitable frame for a cyclist. Once the cyclist has the data storagemedium, It can be presented at any bicycle dealer so that optimizedframe dimensions can be extracted.

In one example, the controller 272 can be connected to an actuator 320for applying the disk brake 130. The controller 272 can be programmedwith a set of instructions so that the disk brake 130 is applied toincrease or decrease resistance to cycling experience by the cyclist.The set of instructions can be configured so that the cyclistexperiences a simulation of a particular route. Furthermore, the set ofinstructions can be written to the controller by the computationaldevice 256. The computational device 28 e can be configured to generatean image for the cyclist that represents the particular route. Tofacilitate this and in order to enhance the functionality of the machine10, the machine 10 can include an electronic odometer that generates asignal representing an equivalent distance covered by the cyclist. Thus,the computational device can be configured so that variouscharacteristics of a selected route can be accurately simulated.

Competitive cyclists generally train with bicycles that are particularlysuited to their specific requirements. Such bicycles are eithercarefully adjusted or have been custom made for the cyclist. As aresult, competitive cyclists are hesitant to train on conventionalstatic cycling machines out of a fear of injury. Such machines cangenerally only be adjusted in a rudimentary manner. Experienced cyclistswho decide to change a riding position such as seat height do sogradually often over many months. Typical static cycling machines have25 mm adjustments in seat height, for example. Such a change couldeasily result in injury. Furthermore, it is often just tootime-consuming and frustrating to attempt to adjust such machines beforetraining. With the present invention, a cyclist can swipe the card andbegin cycling as soon as the machine has adjusted itself into acondition optimized for the cyclist.

Competitive cyclists are often required to travel around the world toattend various competitions. As a result they often find themselves inhotels with gymnasiums. However, these gymnasiums are generally fittedwith conventional cycling machines and cyclists are hesitant to use suchmachines. The machine 10 provides a means whereby competitive cyclistscan train in conditions that closely simulate their competitivebicycles. It is not only competitive cyclists who find themselves insuch a position. Cycling has become a very popular pastime amongbusinessmen, professionals and others who attend gymnasiums when awayfrom home. The machine 10 provides a training apparatus that can closelysimulate their bicycles so that training regimes can be maintained.

At present, especially equipped training centres are used to fitcompetitive cyclists to cycle frames and to carry out the associatedtesting. Such fitting and testing can be prohibitively expensive andtime-consuming. It will readily be appreciated that the machine 10provides a means whereby such expense and time is saved. Because theframe assembly has components common to those of conventional and even alarge number of specialized bicycles, it is possible to use the datagenerated by the controller 272 for fitting such bicycles to cyclists.Such bicycles could include competitive road bicycles, off-road bicycle,such as BMX bicycles and downhill racers and track bicycles.

Static cycling machines are a popular method of exercise for athletes atall levels, whether cyclists or riot. An example of their popularity istheir growing use in what is called “spinning”. That activity usuallyinvolves a number of users each positioned on a cycling machine beingdirected by an instructor on a similar cycling machine. Generally,spinning machines only have very rudimentary adjustment mechanisms.These can be both difficult and tedious to adjust, particularlyconsidering that many different users could use a particular machine injust one day. As a result, the users often don't bother to adjust themachines properly. Even when they do make adjustments, those adjustmentsare usually just an estimation of the proper settings. The machine 10can be used to address this problem. For example, in one application,the machine 10 could be used as a spinning machine. In that application,the embodiment of the drive assembly described above could be replacedwith a more conventional drive assembly. It will be appreciated that thewireless capability of the machine 10 and the controller 272 would alloweach gym member to have both the machine 10 and a route or routinespecifically customized for that member. Furthermore, the data storagemedium, for example a swipe card, could be used to facilitate alterationof the frame dimensions and even the routine to accommodate a newmember.

It will be appreciated that the frame assembly 14 is analogous to thatof a conventional bicycle. As a result, a cycling experience can beachieved that is similar to that of a conventional bicycle. This isenhanced by the pivotal adjustability of the handlebar assembly.

In this specification, the term “cyclist” is not intended to refer onlyto those whose primary sporting activity is cycling. Rather, the word isintended to cover all who incorporate cycling into their trainingschedules. These could include runners, football and rugby players, anda host of others.

Throughout the specification, including the claims, where the contextpermits, the term “comprising” and variants thereof such as “comprise”or “comprises” are to be interpreted as including the stated integer orintegers without necessarily excluding any other integers.

It is to be understood that the terminology employed above is for thepurpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Thedescribed embodiments are intended to be illustrative of the invention,without limiting the scope thereof. The invention is capable of beingpractised with various modifications and additions as will readily occurto those skilled in the art.

1. A static cycling machine which comprises a support assembly; a driveassembly; a frame assembly mounted on the support assembly, the frameassembly comprising a seat tube assembly extending from the driveassembly, the seat tube assembly being adjustable in length; a down tubeassembly extending from the drive assembly, the down tube assembly beingadjustable in length; a handlebar assembly mounted on the down tubeassembly; and a fork assembly connected to the handlebar assembly andbeing adjustable in length, the seat tube, down tube, handlebar and forkassemblies being connected to each other such that at least thedimensions, of the frame assembly can be adjusted by adjusting thelengths of the tube assemblies; and a driven wheel assembly operativelyconnected to the drive assembly so that work applied to the driveassembly can be transmitted to the wheel assembly; and actuatorsoperatively engaged with the frame assembly to adjust dimensions of theframe assembly.
 2. A static cycling machine as claimed in claim 1, inwhich a top tube assembly is connected between the seat tube assemblyand the handlebar assembly and is adjustable in length.
 3. A staticcycling machine as claimed in claim 1, in which a seat assembly ismounted on the seat tube assembly.
 4. A static cycling machine asclaimed in claim 3, in which an actuator is engaged with the seat tubeassembly and an actuator is engaged with the down tube assembly,
 5. Astatic cycling machine as claimed in claim 3, in which the fork assemblyincludes left and right fork assemblies and actuators are engaged withrespective fork assemblies.
 6. A static cycling machine as claimed inclaim 3, in which the seat assembly includes a seat post assembly thatis adjustable with respect to the seat tube assembly, an actuator beingengaged with and interposed between the seat post and seat tubeassemblies.
 7. A static cycling machine as claimed in claim 3, in whichthe handlebar assembly is pivotally mounted with respect to the top tubeassembly, the down tube assembly and the fork assembly to permit thehandlebar assembly to pivot in response to adjustment of the frameassembly.
 8. A static cycling machine as claimed in claim 7, in which anactuator is engaged with the down tube assembly and the handlebarassembly to pivot the handlebar assembly.
 9. A static cycling machine asclaimed in claim 3, in which the drive assembly includes a pair ofindependently operable crank and drive sprocket assemblies.
 10. A staticcycling machine as claimed in claim 9, in which the drive assemblyincludes an intermediate sprocket and hub assembly that includes a pairof minor sprockets to take power from each of the crank and drivesprocket assemblies and a major sprocket rotationally fixed with respectto the minor sprockets.
 11. A static cycling machine as claimed in claim10, in which the driven wheel assembly includes a driven sprocket totake power from the major sprocket and a continuously variabletransmission connected to the driven sprocket.
 12. A static cyclingmachine as claimed in claim 10, in which the driven wheel assemblyincludes a driven sprocket set to take power from the major sprocket.13. A static cycling machine as claimed in claim 11, in which the drivenwheel assembly includes a resistance wheel connected to the drivensprocket via the transmission, the resistance wheel having vanes toprovide air resistance as the wheel is rotated, each vane havingperipheral edges that are directed away from a direction of movement ofthe vanes.
 14. A static cycling machine as claimed in claim 1, whichincludes a fan cover assembly for covering the driven wheel assembly,the fan cover assembly defining a vent to direct a flow of air generatedby the driven wheel assembly on to a user to cool the user.
 15. Acontrol system for a static cycling machine as claimed in claim 1, thecontrol system comprising a controller operatively connected to each ofthe actuators to control operation of the actuators and thus the extentof adjustment of the frame assembly; and a data storage mediumoperatively connected to the controller to store data related to theextent of adjustment of each actuator.
 16. A control system. as claimedin claim 15, which includes a wireless communications module to permitthe controller to communicate data to a wireless device.
 17. A controlsystem as claimed in claim 16, in which the control system includes awireless terminal configured to read data from the controller and togenerate a suitable interface to permit an operator to adjust the frameassembly.
 18. A control system as claimed in claim 16, in which thecontroller is configured to read user data from the actuatorscorresponding to an extent of adjustment of the frame assembly and tostore said user data in the data storage medium.
 19. A control system asclaimed in claim 16, which includes a wireless computational device thatis configured to receive said user data from the controller and togenerate output data based on the user data.
 20. A control system asclaimed in claim 19 in which the computational device is configured togenerate a database relating users with data representing frame assemblydimensions.
 21. A control system as claimed in claim 20, in which thecomputational device is configured to write user data for respectiveusers to a data storage medium for use by said respective users.
 22. Acontrol system as claimed in claim 21 which includes a reader forreading said data storage medium, the controller being configured tocontrol operation of the actuators in response to data read from thestorage medium such that the frame assembly is adjusted into a conditionrelated to the user associated with the data storage medium.
 23. Amethod for using the static cycling machine of claim 1, the methodcomprising the steps of: recording a user's details; reading powerapplied at the drive assembly; adjusting the frame assembly with theactuators until a maximum power applied at the drive assembly isachieved; recording positional conditions of the actuators correspondingto said maximum power; and storing the user's details together with thepositional conditions in a database.
 24. A method as claimed in claim23, which includes the steps of writing data relating to the user'sdetails and the positional conditions of the actuators to a data storagemedium.
 25. A method as claimed in claim 24, which includes the steps ofreading said data relating to the user's details and the positionalconditions of the actuators and adjusting the frame assembly. inaccordance with said data.